Description: The scroll is an illuminated inscription on long textile, with a wooden rod on one end and gold fringe on the other. The inscription is in Gaelic on the left and English on the right. The coat of arms for the City of Cork is in the middle: a ship between two watch towers and "Statio Bene Fide Carinis" meaning a "safe harbor for ships." The Kennedy Coat of Arms is on the left, and Presidential Seal is on the right. The custom of awarding the "Freedom of the City" whereby persons distinguished for public service become Honorary Burgesses of a City dates from the 14th century. President Kennedy was elected 11th June 1963, in token of pride that this descendant of Irish emigrants should have been elected to such an exalted office and appreciation of his action in coming to visit the country of his ancestors; as a tribute to his unceasing and fruitful work towards the attainment of prosperity and true peace by all the people of the world; and in recognition of the close ties that have always existed between Ireland and the United States.

Historical Note: The scroll was conferred on President Kennedy June 28th, 1963 during his visit to Ireland.